Shaheen Saalabi '16 Recruiting Profile

2015 SENIOR YEAR HIGHLIGHTS: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2223280/highlights/304679457/v2

HUDL PROFILE: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2223280/shaheen-saalabi

On paper, I may not be a 6'3'', 250 pound phenom, but what I may lack in size or strength, I make up for it in heart and hustle. Although I don't come from a football family and didn't get an opportunity to play youth football, I always knew football was in my blood. From playing catch in the backyard with my brothers in grade school, playing flag football in middle school, and playing my first season as a varsity starter, I have had a passion for football that has and will continue to grow. When I'm on the field, whether in games or in practice, I have the competitiveness of a warrior and the insight of the coach, while still having the same positive demeanor of that kid playing backyard football with his brothers. In addition, I am a fan and student of the game — I watch football (of all levels) constantly not just because I love it, but because I push myself to learn about the intricacies of the game. I am running, weightlifting, and receiving footballs seven days a week this offseason because I know I need to be a leader my senior year and I know I have to push my limits in preparation for college football. In the classroom, I am not the perfect student but I have sincerely tried my hardest to keep my grades as high as I can and I am definitely looking for a school that is both strong in athletics and academics. Ultimately, I can be a valuable addition to any football team because I have the work ethic, determination, and positive attitude that it takes to be a contributor from day one. 

Junior Season:

In my Junior Year of football(Played at 6,0, 225 pounds), our team switched the offense to a Academy Triple Option system. For the new offense we ran, I had to switch from my original position of Tight End(played Tight End the last 2 years) to Wide Receiver where I found success in this season. I started in all 12 of our teams games this season. Although our offense wasn't incredibly pass-heavy, I was able to develop my blocking abilities and push my versatility as a football player.

Senior Season: For my senior season, again we ran the Academy Triple Option system and started all 10 of our teams games this season at wide receiver(Played at 6,0, 205 pounds) where I found a lot of individual success again this season. I saw time at Defensive End, Linebacker and Defensive Tackle this year on the defensive side of the ball.